How to run old programs on Windows 7

One common problem with new Windows operating system is that some of the old software refuses to work properly or work at all. This extends to drivers, especially when switching from a 32 bit version to a 64 bit one. The most usual solution is to wait for a new version of that program or driver that is update to work with the new operating system.

But waiting is not always the best solution, at least when it comes to incompatible software and I’m going to show you a little trick that might save you from upgrading to a new version (which sometimes can only be done by paying a certain amount of money). No, I’m not talking about XP Mode for Windows 7, which means installing Windows XP in a virtual machine and running program from there.

Using Windows 7 compatibility mode

For those of you who don’t know Windows 7, as previous Windows versions did that allow a program to be executed in an environment similar to a previous version of Windows, which can be  selected by you. Accessing it is pretty simple: right click on a file or shortcut that you wish to execute and select Properties. From here go to Compatibility tab and check “Run this program in compatibility mode for” and select a previous Windows version for the drop down list below. Hit Apply and double click that file/shortcut again. If it still doesn’t work then select another compatibility mode. If none of them work then you might try XP Mode or wait for a compatible version to be released.

You can also choose to run the program with Administrator privileges or enforce the settings to all user running that particular program. Note: this trick also applies to installer programs, not just already installed software. Remember that running a program in compatibility mode doesn’t mean it will not affect your computer, for example best registry cleaners have released update versions that support Windows 7 but older models might just ruin your installation.

Windows 7 compatibility mode selector

If you encounter problems let me know and I’ll try and help you. Also if there’s other software problem you’ve encountered drop a comment below and I’ll try and help you.